Why Make This Recipe
A birthday cake is a classic treat that brings joy and celebration to any birthday party. It’s a symbol of festivity and togetherness, making it a must-have for your special day. This recipe is simple and perfect for both novice bakers and those more experienced in the kitchen. By making your own birthday cake, you can customize it to your taste, making it truly special.
How to Make Birthday Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- Frosting of choice (e.g., buttercream, cream cheese, chocolate)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk.
- Pour the batter into prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Frost as desired and serve.
How to Serve Birthday Cake
Once your cake is cooled and frosted, it’s ready to serve! You can cut it into slices and place them on individual plates. It is delightful on its own or with a scoop of ice cream on the side. You can also decorate with colorful sprinkles or fresh fruit for an extra touch.
How to Store Birthday Cake
If you have leftovers, you can store the birthday cake in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you freeze it, the cake can last for about 3 months when wrapped tightly.
Tips to Make Birthday Cake
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a fluffy texture.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
Variation
Feel free to add your favorite flavors! You can mix in chocolate chips, fruit, or even nuts. Different flavored frostings, like chocolate or cream cheese, can also change the taste and feel of your cake.
FAQs
1. Can I use cake mix instead?
Yes, you can use a store-bought cake mix for a quicker option. Just follow the package instructions and frost as desired.
2. How do I make a layered birthday cake?
Simply double the recipe or bake multiple layers, stacking them with frosting in between.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it wrapped in plastic wrap until you are ready to frost and serve.
Classic Birthday Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple yet delicious birthday cake recipe that’s perfect for all celebrations. Customize it to your taste with your favorite frosting and flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- Frosting of choice (e.g., buttercream, cream cheese, chocolate)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk.
- Pour the batter into prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Frost as desired and serve.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
